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Phillies release lefty Dontrelle Willis

The Philadelphia Phillies have released left-handed pitcher Dontrelle Willis. The team announced the move Friday morning on Twitter. The 30-year-old Willis signed a deal with the Phillies this off-season and was competing for a bullpen spot this spring.

The Associated Press · March 16, 2012

Dontrelle Willis has pitched for four teams in nine seasons, all of them as a starter. (Keith Srakocic/Associated Press)

The Philadelphia Phillies have released left-handed pitcher Dontrelle Willis.

The team announced the move Friday morning on Twitter.

The 30-year-old Willis signed a deal with the Phillies this off-season and was competing for a bullpen spot this spring.

A two-time All Star with the Florida Marlins, Willis has pitched for four teams in nine seasons, all of them as a starter. The Phillies signed him to a nonguaranteed contract in December, and according to the Philadelphia Inquirer he will receive $139,000 in severance pay.

In three appearances this spring, Willis has allowed five earned runs on five hits and four walks in 2 2/3 innings. He made his last appearance Thursday against the Tampa Bay Rays.

The Phillies also reassigned catcher Steven Lerud to minor league camp Friday morning.